More than 1.5m foreign pilgrims begin Hajj despite Iran war fears

Over 1.51 million foreign pilgrims have begun the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, an increase from last year, despite regional concerns over the conflict between Iran and the US/Israel. Saudi air defence forces are stationed near Mecca to counter potential aerial threats, while pilgrims expressed hopes for peace amidst high temperatures and the sacred rituals.